Jack Barton, best known to Elden Ring players as the voice of Messmer the Impaler, is reportedly being considered for the next James Bond. The report is unconfirmed and screen tests have not yet begun, but it highlights the continuing debate over whether 007 should be played by an established celebrity or a less familiar actor.

Barton’s other credits include Poor Things and acclaimed British television series, while reported rivals include Jacob Elordi, Callum Turner, Paul Mescal and Harris Dickinson. Former Bond casting director Debbie McWilliams has argued that the role should not go to a major star, and Barton reportedly shares a publicist with previous Bond actor Daniel Craig; the article also notes that a new Bond film would still be some way off.